WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (May 12, 2017) – The Finger Lakes Wine Festival presented by Yancey’s Fancy New York Artisan Cheese will open on Friday, July 14th with the event’s highly-anticipated twilight party, Yancey’s Fancy Launch of the Lakes.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for this colorful evening, which features previews of several Festival wineries, an array of artisan cheese provided by Yancey’s Fancy, a dusk fireworks display, and contests awarding the best togas and costumes in attendance. Live music will accompany the revelry, camaraderie, and fun atmosphere of this unique event.

Attendees will have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes during the toga and costume contests, with prizes awarded in multiple categories. Two individuals will be crowned Yancey’s Fanciest King & Queen of the festival by Bacchus, the God of wine, and receive complimentary 2018 festival passes, including admission to the Tasters’ Banquet and Great Western Breakfast. Guests are encouraged to check out the festival’s site for the latest Toga Contest categories at www.flwinefest.com.

Tickets for this can’t-miss night will be available at the gate, however, advanced purchase is strongly encouraged. Launch of the Lakes is a separate event from the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, and is not included in regular festival admission.

The Finger Lakes Wine Festival presented by Yancey’s Fancy New York’s Artisan Cheese, July 14-16, offers the largest showcase of New York State wines with over 90 wineries paired with regional artisans, music, and seminars all in one beautiful location. Tickets are available for the event voted USA Today’s “Best Wine Festival” by calling 866.461.7223 or at www.flwinefest.com.